Two former Welwyn Wheelers have moved into the professional cycling ranks.

Louis Sutton was the first to get the nod, signing for the Basque team Euskaltel-Euskadi.

They compete in the second tier of cycling, although are a regular fixture in the Vuelta a Espana.

He has now been joined by Oli Stockwell who has moved into the top flight with World Tour giants Bahrain Victorious.

The 22-year-old had been riding for their junior team, CTF Victorious, over the last three seasons and consistent results, like a top 10 in key U23 race, Giro Ciclistico della Valle d’Aosta, has earned him his place at the big table.

And the London Colney man, and former Verulam School pupil, is chomping at the bit to get going.

He said: "I’m super excited for this step up to the World Tour with team Bahrain Victorious.

"Having spent the last three years in the development team, I’m really excited to get going in the World Tour and to learn from some of these really experienced guys.

"Hopefully I can learn a lot and make some big improvements."

Bahrain Victorious is home to some of the sport's biggest names and most prolific winners.

They include Matej Mohoric, who has won stages in all three of the grand tours, including three at the Tour de France, and Damiano Caruso, who was second overall at the Giro d'Italia in 2021 and fourth in 2023.

Their big summer signing is 21-year-old French climbing sensation, Lenny Martinez.

Sutton's move came after a stellar year, including a breakout ride at this year's Tour of Britain, where he was comfortably inside the top 10 overall until he was forced to pull out.

Speaking on Velo UK, the 22-year-old from St Albans said: "It means a lot to be joining Euskaltel-Euskadi. I have ridden a lot in the Basque Country and have loved every race I have done.

"The atmosphere and enthusiasm that the fans show at every race is unseen anywhere else."